NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, opens its doors to the public at its Open House on Saturday, October 11, and Sunday, October 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This year's theme is "Welcome to Our Universe." Visitors can see a life-size model of the Mars Science Laboratory rover, Curiosity, and check out demonstrations from numerous space missions. Attractions include JPL's mission control, where engineers "talk to" spacecraft; the machine shop, where highly precise robotic spacecraft parts are built; and the Microdevices Lab, where engineers and scientists use tiny technology to revolutionize space exploration. There will also be an interactive art installation inspired by comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, which the Rosetta mission is currently orbiting.
Guests are invited to ask questions, invite friends, and post photos and videos on the Facebook Open House event page at:
http://www.facebook.com/events/694670457270411/
Visitors using Twitter are encouraged to use the #JPLOpen hashtag.
JPL is located at 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, California, 91109. Admission to Open House is free. Parking is limited, but free.
To get to JPL, take the Berkshire Avenue/Oak Grove Drive exit from the 210 Freeway in La Canada/Flintridge. Detailed directions are online at:
http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/about_JPL/maps.php
All visitors should wear comfortable shoes -- no buses will be provided from JPL parking lots. JPL will provide vans for mobility-challenged guests.
Vehicles and items carried by persons entering NASA/JPL property are subject to inspection by officers at the entry checkpoints. The following items are prohibited: All weapons, explosives, incendiary devices, dangerous instruments, alcohol, illegal drugs, pets, all types of skates including skateboards, Segways and bicycles. The JPL Open House does not allow large bags, backpacks or ice chests. Small purses and diaper bags are acceptable.
For more information about the JPL Open House, visit:
http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/events/open-house.php
Media wishing to cover the event should RSVP to: Elizabeth Landau at Elizabeth.Landau@jpl.nasa.gov or 1-818-354-6425.